Volume: 5, 2026
5th International PhD Students’ Conference at the University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Poland:
ENVIRONMENT – PLANT – ANIMAL – PRODUCT
Abstract number: E014
DOI: https://doi.org/10.24326/ICDSUPL5.E014
Published online: 22 April 2026
The role of the family in shaping children’s pro‑environmental attitudes: a literature review
Wiktoria Krakowiak
Faculty of Pedagogy and Psychology, Maria Curie-Sklodowska University, 43 Głęboka St., 20-612 Lublin, Poland
Corresponding author: krakowiak-wiktoria@o2.pl
The family is a primary environment in which children develop values, behaviours, and attitudes toward the natural world. This review summarises current knowledge on how parental actions, family routines, and home practices contribute to the formation of pro‑environmental attitudes in children. Children are most influenced by observing their parents’ behaviours, including recycling, conserving water and energy, and engaging with nature, rather than solely by verbal guidance. Shared family activities, such as gardening, outdoor recreation, and caring for pets, strengthen children’s connection with the environment and foster responsible ecological behaviour. The influence of family is strongest in early childhood, while peers and school gradually become more influential during adolescence. Effective environmental education therefore benefits from collaboration between families and educational institutions, combining practical, observable behaviours with knowledge and discussion. Understanding the mechanisms through which families shape environmental awareness can inform strategies to enhance ecological literacy and encourage sustainable practices from an early age.
Keywords: children; environmental education; famil; pro‑environmental attitudes; socialisation
How to cite
Krakowiak W., 2026. The role of the family in shaping children’s pro‑environmental attitudes: a literature review. In: 5th International PhD Students’ Conference at the University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Poland: Environment – Plant – Animal – Product. https://doi.org/10.24326/ICDSUPL5.E014